How to apply for a vehicle loading permit if you have a boat or business on the Bristol Harbour.
Applications for parking permits are now open.
Leisure loading permit for boat owners
You can have a leisure loading permit if you're a boat owner with a mooring in Bristol Harbour. This allows you to park your vehicle:
- and access your boat for loading and unloading
- for 1 hour at a time, with no return for 3 hours
- in any allocated area on the Bristol Harbour
You can have one permit per boat. Any parked vehicle not displaying a valid permit will be removed.
The new loading permit will be valid for a 2 year period until the end of 2027. You need to apply for a permit as you won't be sent a new one automatically.
No replacement permits can be issued.
If you change your vehicle
You don't need a new permit if you change your vehicle, as the name of your boat is on the loading permit.
If you buy a boat
The previous owner must pass their loading permit to you as part of the transfer of moorings. If they don't have a loading permit, email docksparking@bristol.gov.uk.
If you leave the harbour
If you're leaving the harbour, you must return your permit to the Harbour Office before you leave, or pass your permit on to the new owner of the boat.
Apply for a leisure loading permit
Commercial loading permits
You can apply for commercial loading permits if you have a business, charity or educational group based on the Bristol Docks. These permits allow you to park at certain times in an agreed location. You can apply for more than one permit.
Any parked vehicle not displaying a valid permit will be removed.
No replacement permits can be issued.
If you change your vehicle
You don't need a new permit if you change your vehicle as the name of your business is on the loading permit.
If your circumstances changes
You must tell us straightaway if your circumstances change. For example, if you change your business name, address or contact details or your business closes down. Email docksparking@bristol.gov.uk.